Events, Organisations & Operators,

My Second Home, Dubai’s first and largest luxury pet resort, is inviting owners of small dogs to celebrate the month of love at a Valentine’s party for pets, taking place this weekend at Little Gems. Bring your petite pooch along to Little Gems, My Second Home’s newly opened facility exclusively for small dogs, for Valentine’s themed events, including prize competitions and photo opportunities. Open to both members and non-members, the event takes place from 4pm to 6 pm on Saturday, 17 and Sunday, 18 February. Saturday’s Valentine’s ‘pawty’ is for miniature breed weighing less than five kilogrammes, with dogs weighing up to 10 kg welcome on Sunday. Dress to impress for Little Gems’ Cupid Cutest Canine Contest, with prizes for the best owner-dog Valentine’s outfits. Plus, pucker up at the Smooch-A-Pooch photo booth and take away a Valentine’s pic to treasure forever. To book your spot, WhatsApp 054 247 1945, or email [email protected]Non-members must show their dog’s up-to-date vaccination record and a successful VacciCheck test on arrival. Little Gems, opened in December as part of My Second Home’s US$10 million expansion. With three facilities across Dubai and over 220 members, My Second Home offers unrivalled dog park, day care, boarding and pet grooming services, with a fully trained team on board to ensure pets are socialised in clean, safe surroundings. For more information on My Second Home, visit the website, email [email protected] or call 04 881 8002. 

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The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is set to organise PATA Travel Mart 2024 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC) in Bangkok, Thailand from August 27-29.
“Thailand has been home to PATA’s HQ for a quarter of a century. We relocated from San Francisco to Thailand in 1998 after a highly selective process. Over the years, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, the Tourism Authority of Thailand, the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau and the PATA Thailand Chapter have given their unwavering support to the association. Holding the 47th iteration of PATA Travel Mart (PTM) is a celebration of the close partnership between PATA and Thai Tourism over many years.” said PATA Chair, Peter Semone.
“As the travel and tourism industry in the Asia Pacific region shows promising signs of recovery and robust growth, PATA Travel Mart is particularly timely. Featuring a 1-day conference, a 2-day business-to-business travel mart, over 10,000 business appointments, and buyers and sellers from more than 40 destinations across six regions; the event offers attendees a firsthand experience of the industry’s resurgence, making it an ideal platform for networking, collaboration, and seizing emerging opportunities,” said PATA CEO, Noor Ahmad Hamid. “With nearly 30 million international visitors in 2023 and a recent visa exemption announcement for travellers from more than 60 destinations, Thailand is the perfect setting for all to engage in B2B networking and partnership-building with clients, decision-makers, and exhibitors worldwide. “
Noor added, “Furthermore, according to the report of the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry (UFI), in 2022 Thailand was ranked No.1 in ASEAN and No.4 in Asia in terms of exhibition spaces, while Bangkok is a MICE hub for meetings and incentives events, conventions, exhibitions and mega-events, with its ease of connectivity to the city via its two international airports, Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Mueang, as well as the rail transport system as well as travel within via the public transport systems such as BTS, MRT or Airport Rail Link. Therefore, we would like to welcome all industry stakeholders to join us this year as we celebrate the industry’s growth.”
PATA Travel Mart, now in its 47th edition, is Asia Pacific’s international travel trade exhibition featuring unparalleled networking and contracting opportunities to help travel and tourism organisations access decision makers, meet new clients, expand their networks, establish new relationships, and consolidate existing business partnerships.ADVERTISEMENTLocated in central Bangkok, the newly renovated, state-of-the-art Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC) embraces a modern, elegant design that reflects Thai Identity with sustainability in mind. It is accessible by several modes of transportation, making it a prime venue for major events since its inception. The venue is easily reached by the MRT, with the QSNCC station connecting directly to the venue. Visitors can also enjoy the view of the lake and park or take a walk through Benjakitti Park nearby.
For more information or to register for PATA Travel Mart, please visit https://www.pata.org/pata-travel-mart-2024 or email [email protected].

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PATA Forecasts Strong Growth in Asia Pacific International Visitor Arrivals Amid Post-COVID Recovery

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The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) released the Executive Summary report for its latest forecasts for international visitor arrivals (IVAs) into and across Asia Pacific, which shows strong annual increases in numbers for 2024 with growth momentum continuing to 2026.
It is expected that pre-COVID levels of IVAs shall be surpassed in 2024 under the mild scenario, and in 2025 under the medium scenario. However, the severe scenario remains a possibility and arrival numbers are predicted to remain around 13 percentage points below the 2019 benchmark by the end of 2026 under such conditions. Nevertheless, the growth felt across the Asia Pacific region validates the enormous work by destinations in luring international travellers and that the complete visitor economy remains vital for national economic recovery.
“The latest PATA forecasts shed light on the swift recovery of the international arrivals numbers in and across the Asia Pacific region, showing signs of strong visitor growth each year between 2024 and 2026 under the mild and medium scenarios, such trends were somewhat driven by joint agreements on destination visa requirements.” PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid noted.
“We cannot, however, expect uniformity in growth from that and other source markets across all the destinations of Asia Pacific, as many will increase their inbound counts at their own pace and in their own time. Furthermore, we must recognise this as the time of fast-paced and constant changes. All of us must remain vigilant of sudden shifts within the industry and be prepared with viable strategies and appropriate coping mechanisms for future uncertainties.”
In absolute terms, the number of IVAs predicted for 2024 ranges from a high of 750 million under the mild scenario, to 619 million under the medium scenario, and 477 million under the severe scenario.ADVERTISEMENTWhile annual increases of IVA numbers into and across Asia Pacific are expected to be robust from 2024 to 2026, significant differences exist for each of the three destination regions as well as for each of the 39 individual destinations covered in the report, and by each of the possible scenarios.
The annual growth rate for IVAs into and across Asia, for example, is predicted to be in this order: 34% in 2024 under the mild scenario, 29% under the medium scenario, and 11% under the severe scenario. The annual IVA numbers are also predicted to decrease slightly during the three years leading up to 2026, reflecting the return to a more stable longer-term growth rate as the ‘s-shaped’ travel demand curve returns to a more consistent position.
While the Americas and the Pacific regions are forecast to have less potent growth compared to Asia, they still have generally significant growth rates and absolute volume increases, with some minor fluctuations over the forecast period.
Despite the prevailing scenario conditions, it seems Asia will maintain a powerful advantage in IVA numbers each year from 2024 to 2026, capturing more than 70% of arrivals into and across Asia Pacific.
Asia is also predicted to dominate as a supplier region of IVAs, returning to a significant level of dominance by supplying more than 58% of all IVAs into Asia Pacific in 2024, under each of the three scenarios. The Americas and Europe follow with shares of around 19% and 14% that same year.
By the end of 2026, Asia is forecast to account for more than 61% of all foreign arrivals across Asia Pacific.
Mr Hamid added, “Even as arrival numbers climb on an upward trajectory, the issues of staffing and maintaining service excellence remain critical issues for destinations within the region, especially now as global competition seeks out the growing source markets contained within Asia Pacific. Any aspect of complacency will be an ever-present danger and must be avoided.”
This report provides:
A forecast summary of IVAs for Asia Pacific between 2024 and 2026 by destination region and sub-region, highlighting changing opportunities in the post-COVID era; andHighlights of the key source markets within each Asia Pacific destination region over the forecast period of 2024 to 2026.The PATA Asia Pacific Visitor Forecasts Executive Summary 2024-2026 is now available here, and is complimentary for all PATA members.
PATA members have exclusive on-demand video access to the forecast related webinar, “The Scientific Crystal Ball: Forecasting the Future Tourism Market”, held later today on Wednesday, February 7, 2024. The webinar includes expert panellists from The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), Euromonitor International, Mastercard, and Amadeus. The speakers will contribute invaluable insights on travel trends of the coming years, key factors driving tourism recovery, and various aspects of the Asia Pacific international visitor numbers forecast from 2024 to 2026.

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Hamad International Airport (DOH) was presented with the ‘Large-Format Digital Canvases’ award at the Digital Signage Awards for its digital ribbon that wraps the ORCHARD, the airport’s indoor tropical garden. Hosted at Esferic Events Centre in Barcelona, the global Digital Signage Awards is an annual international search for excellence and innovation across projects, creativity, products and services. The project was submitted by multimedia studio Moment Factory who was tasked with enhancing the ORCHARD with a creative multimedia ecosystem.
Unveiled in November 2022, part of Phase A of Hamad International Airport’s expansion plan, the 6,000 square-meter ORCHARD is home to trees, plants and shrubs sourced from sustainable forests from around the world. The ribbon display is a notable feature of the ORCHARD, that compliments the lush greenery and 10,000 square-meters of multi-dimensional retail and F&B space offering, adding to the visual ecosystem.
Key features of the Digital Ribbon Display at the ORCHARD:
The state-of-the-art digital ribbon installation is approximately 1.2 kilometers, spanning across two storeys, tailored to enhance the ambiance of the tropical garden with bespoke visuals.The intricate visuals created in collaboration with Moment Factory are projected through high resolution display with over 169 million pixels of animation.The visual displays of the ribbon consist of multiple themes including a luxe botanical elements, flora and fauna, Qatar Sands of time and a Mirage, embodying the culture and heritage of the state of Qatar.The display comes to life every hour creating an immersive experience for passengersThe ORCHARD is located in the North Plaza, and is connected to the South Plaza, where the famous Lamp/Bear resides, and can be accessed via the Passenger Train – travel time between both stations in 90 seconds, or can be reached by travelators, buggies or walking.
Winning the accolade is testament to Hamad International Airport’s investment in creating a memorable experience for passengers by introducing an open gallery experience through a collection on one-of-a-kind art installations and incorporating digital art to elevate the airport journey.ADVERTISEMENT

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Hovertravel launches romantic experience for Valentines
For anyone planning something different for Valentine’s, Hovertravel has announced a new, romantic-themed experience for couples for Sunday 18th February.Loretta Lale, Head of Commercial at Hovertravel, explains: “In a first for Hovertravel, we are offering a unique opportunity for couples to celebrate in our hovercraft environment. Research indicates that people who enjoy Valentine’s Day are looking for different events and we have added elements to our classic VIP experience to make a special occasion. This event is part of our all new for 2024 Showcase range of themed experiences.“
On arrival, guests will be welcomed into a champagne and chocolates reception in the Solent Views suite at Hovertravel’s terminal in Ryde. 
Offering exceptional views over the hover pad with the ability to watch arriving and departing hovercraft from an elevated balcony, this viewpoint also reveals a sweeping vista of the Solent.
Following a meet and greet with one of Hovertravel’s pilots, guests will then board a hovercraft for a 20 minute hovercraft experience including 360 degree turns, deflating the skirt and a demonstration of the unique manoeuvrability of a hovercraft accompanied by expert commentary from the pilot.ADVERTISEMENTLoretta adds: “There are also plenty of opportunities to capture loved-up selfies for your memories and obviously we would welcome anyone who might wish to be the first ever wedding proposal on a hovercraft!”
For more details and bookings please visit: https://www.hovertravel.co.uk/Valentines
£75 per adult (16+), £35 per child (5-15yrs), £5 infant (0-4yrs)

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The race to Abu Dhabi Grand Prix has begun! Fans can head to Ferrari World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi for a racing-themed experience in this year’s Fanzone. From November 20 to 26, guests can enjoy the ultimate race build up while watching highlights of the 2023 season ahead of the live broadcast of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Lucky guests will have the opportunity to meet Scuderia Ferrari driver Carlos Sainz during his visit to the park on November 22.
Adding to the excitement, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi will be hosting a variety of entertaining activities including a live DJ, break dancers, themed merchandise, designated chill-out sections with large LED screens and more!
Formula One enthusiasts can look forward to an exhibit of The Ferrari SF-23 racing car designed and constructed by Scuderia Ferrari and driven by Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz in Grand Prix races. Guests can also snap photos in front of a racing themed Fanzone backdrop to commemorate their visit. At the heart of the Fanzone, Ferrari fans can expect the first touring exhibition showcasing the Formula One Driver Racing Kits as seen on Antonio Giovinazzi who won at the 24 hours of Le Mans race in June 2023, Kimi Räikkönen throughout his races in 2018 and Leclerc and Sainz in the 2023 Italian Grand Prix in Monza, amongst others.
Gear up for a thrilling week of activities as family and friends come together at the heart of the world’s leading theme park, all in anticipation of the year’s most exciting event.ADVERTISEMENTFerrari World was voted World’s Leading Theme Park 2022 at last year’s World Travel Awards and in addition, Yas Island collected the award for World’s Leading Theme Park Destination 2022.

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A new sustainability report presented at the Phocuswright Conference has revealed a considerable gap between what people say and what they do when it comes to green travel.
The results were presented by Madeline List, Phocuswright senior research analyst, and shone a light on the preferences of thousands of travellers from across the US and Europe.
In the US and EU, around half of the respondents said they were more likely to choose transport based on carbon footprint rather than convenience. 
But, when asked why they chose certain transport options during recent travels, a much smaller number cited environmental factors as a reason.
Respondents said they were more likely to choose a hotel for its sustainability credentials than price. 
But of those that had booked, only 6-13 per cent said environmental reasons were among their top five considerations.
“People are more likely to follow through on what they say if they will directly feel the burn from not doing so,” said List. 
“For example, around half would rather stay somewhere less famous and less crowded – and many people actually follow through on this, as they are more directly affected by not doing so.  ADVERTISEMENT“With environmental decisions, people care, but they do not directly feel the consequences of not following through on sustainable choices.
“Likewise, travellers want their money to benefit the communities they visit. 
“But when asked if they ever checked to see if what they bought was locally sourced, only one-in-four said they did. 
“Emotionally, people care, but they’re not taking the practical steps needed make those decisions.”
Travelers find sustainability confusing
Do travellers know what it actually means to travel sustainably? 
The majority of respondents said that they find the standards for environmentally conscious travel confusing – and the ones that are sustainability-orientated already are the ones that are more confused than the people that don’t care. 
Some 19-26 per cent also believe that they don’t travel frequently enough to have a significant impact on the environment. 
Event those that take two trips a year don’t think they have much of an impact, but they are a sizeable part of travel.
Travelers were split over who should take responsibility for sustainability – many believe it’s the role of government, whereas others think it’s travel providers, destination organisations, or travellers themselves.
Travelers think it should be the responsibility of destination organizations to keep tourism money within the local community, which would explain why they’re not asking where their money goes after they spend it.
Some 36-47 per cent of travellers also think sustainable travel options are more expensive. 
And the more someone think about sustainability at home, the more likely they are to believe it presents more expensive travel options. 
Some ten-15 per cent more was the accepted premium people said they would pay for greener travel.
“I don’t think this belief-behaviour gap is coming from a bad place,” said List. 
“They want to believe that they will make the right decision, but it’s important [for travel providers] to understand that this is not always the reality.” 
List finished by giving her practical suggestions for the travel industry: 

Increase sustainable options – make them more available and viable to begin with – they have to be appealing to travellers as a whole, and shouldn’t just be about sustainability.
Green options need to be easy to find and prominent.
Show that sustainable is accessible and affordable – push sustainable options at various price points.
Help travellers understand that sustainability goes beyond the environment – it extends to many other areas too.
Educate, educate, educate – inspire travellers to aspire for collective change; speak to the why not just the what, build understanding from the ground up.

More Information
More than 1,300 attendees are currently at The Phocuswright Conference, which is taking place this week in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Find out more here.

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Phocuswright, the leading global travel industry research authority and producer of the annual Phocuswright Conference, has urged the hospitality industry to rethink the traditional property management systems (PMS).
Hoteliers are urged to adopt AI to harness real-time data and transform hotel operations.
The Phocuswright Conference, which takes place in Fort Lauderdale from November 13-16, is themed ‘You, Me & the Machine,’ will explore the massive possibilities for AI in the travel space. 
One major focus area at the event is hospitality. 
Entrepreneur Richard Valtr will take one of the main sessions on the Centre Stage to talk about how artificial intelligence is redefining the hotel PMS.
“The post-pandemic travel industry is on the cusp of unprecedented change due to rapidly advancing AI, meaning the hotel industry faces new challenges and opportunities,” said Gene Ko, director of marketing and communications at Phocuswright.  ADVERTISEMENT“Hotel operators today have unparalleled access to real-time and forecast data. 
“However, they need the ability to translate it into actionable insights that can be applied to everyday operations. 
“The traditional PMS – which is used to informing operating decisions based on historic data – is no longer fit for the challenge. 
“It must be redefined to enable hotels to survive and thrive in this new era of travel.”
Attendees at The Phocuswright Conference will hear about Valtr’s start-up Mews, a technology company that is using artificial intelligence to rethink hotels’ physical spaces, services and guest experiences. 
Its future-focused PMS is now powering more than 3,500 of the world’s best hospitality brands.
“The PMS needs to bring operational, labour and revenue data together,” continued Ko. 
“When every aspect of the system is connected, leadership can look at the operation holistically, they can respond to the precise situations that unfold each day – and a new kind of decision making can happen.”
The Phocuswright Conference
The Phocuswright Conference ignites solutions and collaboration whenever cutting-edge innovation demands a rethink of our products, services and processes. 
For more information, click here.
Chris O’Toole

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